Is India Extending the Exposition of Holy Relics of Lord Buddha in Bhutan for Another Week?
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Synopsis
The extension of the exposition of the Holy Relics of Lord Buddha in Bhutan signals a deepening cultural connection between India and Bhutan. This cherished event offers more opportunities for spiritual seekers to connect with their heritage. Explore how this display of reverence is shaping international relations and fostering mutual respect between these two nations.
Key Takeaways
- Exposition of Holy Relics extended by one week.
- Significant public interest from Bhutanese pilgrims.
- Special flight arranged for the relics' return.
- Union Minister Kiren Rijiju to lead the closing ceremony.
- Strengthens cultural ties between India and Bhutan.
New Delhi, Nov 17 (NationPress) In response to a formal request from the Royal Government of Bhutan, the revered exposition of the Holy Relics of Lord Buddha from India, currently taking place in Thimphu, has been officially prolonged for an additional week, as confirmed by an official on Monday.
The exposition, which has attracted thousands of dedicated pilgrims, will now be available until November 25, according to a statement from the Ministry of Culture.
To ensure the safe return of the Holy Relics, a dedicated aircraft is scheduled to depart for Bhutan on November 24, with the relics set to return to India the following day.
The closing ceremony will be led by Union Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Minority Affairs, Kiren Rijiju.
This extension highlights the profound cultural and spiritual connections between India and Bhutan, showcasing the immense respect and admiration the exposition has garnered from the Bhutanese public, as stated.
The remarkable devotion displayed by the Bhutanese people stands as a testament to our shared spiritual heritage. The Ministry of Culture, Government of India, feels privileged to honor Bhutan's request, enabling more devotees to receive blessings, the statement continued.
The event has further solidified the enduring bonds of friendship and mutual respect between our two nations.
The exposition marks a significant milestone in India-Bhutan relations, celebrating a shared Buddhist heritage and reinforcing the special ties of trust and collaboration.
Earlier this month, Prime Minister Narendra Modi joined Bhutan King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck in seeking blessings from the Holy Relics amid a warm reception from local monks at Thimphu's Tashichhodzong.
The relics from India, currently housed at the Grand Kuenrey Hall in Tashichhodzong, were sent for exposition as a special tribute to honor the Fourth King’s 70th birth anniversary along with the Global Peace Prayer Festival organized by the Royal Government of Bhutan.
PM Narendra Modi participated with His Majesty the King of Bhutan in seeking blessings from the Holy Relics, accompanied by the chanting of monks, as noted by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on X.
Buddhism serves as a common heritage for both India and Bhutan, with numerous Bhutanese pilgrims visiting Bodh Gaya, Rajgir, Nalanda, Sikkim, Udayagiri, Sarnath, and other significant Buddhist sites across India.
As part of the celebrations marking the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between India and Bhutan, the Je Khenpo oversaw the groundbreaking ceremony for a Bhutanese temple in Rajgir, which was officially consecrated in September this year. A statue of Zhabdrung, a revered figure in Bhutan and considered the founder of the Bhutanese nation, is currently on display at the Simtokha Dzong in Bhutan, loaned by the Asiatic Society in Kolkata.
Point of View
I acknowledge the profound significance of this event in reinforcing the cultural and spiritual ties between India and Bhutan. The extension of the Holy Relics exposition not only honors the shared Buddhist heritage but also emphasizes the importance of mutual respect and cooperation in our diplomatic relations.
NationPress
17/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was the exposition of the Holy Relics extended?
The exposition was extended at the request of the Royal Government of Bhutan to allow more devotees to seek blessings.
When will the Holy Relics return to India?
The Holy Relics will be returned to India on November 25, following a special flight on November 24.
Who is leading the closing ceremony?
The closing ceremony will be led by Union Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Minority Affairs, Kiren Rijiju.
What is the significance of this event for India and Bhutan?
This event celebrates the shared Buddhist heritage and strengthens the cultural and spiritual bonds between the two nations.
How does this event reflect the relationship between India and Bhutan?
The event underscores the deep cultural ties and mutual respect that characterize the relationship between India and Bhutan.
